‘Breakthrough’ US deal for Belfast app developer i3 Digital

A Belfast technology company has won a "breakthrough" contract in the United States to roll out an app that could potentially support 25,000 businesses across the greater Worcester area in Massachusetts.

Adrian Bradley, chief executive of i3 Digital, said the company is also in discussions with businesses in five other cities on the east coast of the US following its first major American deal.

“We’ve just opened a new office in Boston this month and we see huge potential in the American market place for our Immersive Communications and Engagement (ICE) platform.

“The new contract with Worcester’s Chamber of Commerce, Destination Worcester and Worcester Cultural Coalition is an important first for us in the US - we are delivering a customised version of our ICE platform - but we believe this is just the start for us in the US,” Mr Bradley said.

The Belfast company specialises in app development, design and digital solutions. Its clients range from the National Lottery in the Republic to the Police Ombudsman of Northern Ireland and the City of Westminster in London.

Its first American clients hope that i3 Digital’s app platform will enable participating organisations in the greater Worcester area to promote, target and interactively engage with visitors and local residents.

Timothy Murray, president of Worcester's Chamber of Commerce said: "While i3 Digital's app platform will greatly enhance the new visitor's experience in our region, we hope it will also help Worcester's residents enjoy the many opportunities available to them including arts, sports, nature, retail, and all our other activities."

The app will actively enable users to view local attractions, buildings, streets and districts, including historical information by using i3 Digital’s “Time Capsule” feature, which promotes an interactive timeline.

Christina Andreoli, executive director, Destination Worcester, and vice-president, Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce also hopes it will deliver an economic boost for the area.

“i3 Digital’s app provides an easy and convenient way to find exciting venues, take advantage of discounts and deals, and share information with friends and family. It will also help our retail, destination, and entertainment communities, which is a huge benefit,” she added.